Olympic Notes

In London, Rosa Silverman noted Royal Mail "attracted criticism for not honouring Paralympic athletes in the same way as Olympians," however, the British Paralympic Association said it was "pleased" with the alternative plans. Gold Medal-winning Paralympians will not be featured on individual stamps as their Olympic counterparts have been. Instead, a series of six first-class stamps featuring every Medallist will be produced on Sept. 9 a few weeks after the London Games conclude (TELEGRAPH, 8/8) Also in London, Matthew Taylor noted Royal Mail "defended the decision not to create individual stamps for Paralympic Gold Medallists." It is the first time commemorative stamps have been introduced for the Paralympics, but the "difference has led to criticism," with some saying that all athletes "should receive equal treatment." The British Paralympic Association said that it had been "working closely with Royal Mail to ensure Paralympians were properly honoured." (GUARDIAN, 8/8).

TICKET FLOP: Also in London, Matthew Beard noted about 50,000 tickets remain for the London Games -- mostly for hockey, athletics, volleyball and some events at the Excel arena. Available tickets are "generally in the highest price categories" -- nearly all of the cut-price family deals are gone as competitions reach their conclusion. Games chiefs said that they are "delighted that such a small proportion of the six million-plus seats remain" (EVENING STANDARD, 8/8). Also in London, Hall & Shearing noted Trading Standards has argued that diving fans who spent up to £295 ($462) on an Olympics ticket, "only to find a restricted view of the action, should be given a full refund." (TELEGRAPH, 8/8).

SKY HIGH: The JAMAICA OBSERVER reported searches for flights to Jamaica on Skyscanner.net shot up by 51% Monday compared to the week before. The "Bolt Boost" inspired thousands to check out the country "as their next holiday destination." Search site Skyscanner "spotted the huge spike" shortly after Usain Bolt won the Gold in the men's 100m final at the London Games (JAMAICA OBSERVER, 8/7).

GOING TO CLASS: The PTI noted London Olympics Bronze Medalist Gagan Narang said that sports "should be made a part of school curriculum." He has asked other states to "take a leaf out of Maharashtra and Haryana's books as far as promoting sport was concerned." Narang: "Sport is an important part of the development of kids and hence, it should be made a part of their curriculum." Narang said that the two governments "were an example to the other states, and they should also imitate their efforts and develop infrastructure" (PTI, 8/8).